Please note that as Latin texts vary greatly in subject-matter, range of vocabulary and complexity of language, as well as in legibility (especially of manuscripts) and meaningful estimates cannot be given until a sample of the work has been carried out, please do not request an estimate in advance - but you can take advantage of samples and/or ceilings (see below). Charges are typically calculated on the basis of hours worked rather than the number of words in the purchased translation. This reflects a fair price based on an accurate calculation of true costs. Our practice of carrying out a sample allows us to provide you at an early stage with a moderately accurate forecast of the total cost.

Advance payment is not required - unlike the practice of most other translation services. You will not be asked for payment until you have received a sample translation of about 100 English words from your Latin text. Payment for the sample, which will not exceed £150, is then due. At this stage you can discuss how you wish to proceed. In the case of longer texts the remainder of the translation will normally be delivered in instalments. Payment for each instalment is due upon its receipt. A small additional charge is made to cover costs of stationery, printing, telephone and postage where applicable.

You can choose to impose a ceiling of your choice on the total cost. This can be done at any time provided that it relates to work not already carried out. If necessary, the more important passages in a text can be selected for translation. If you opt to receive your translation in very clear handwriting rather than print, this also reduces costs.

For a Latin legal document such as a standard land transfer deed, in print or very clear handwriting, the typical cost averages £150 per hundred words of English translation (2019 rates). On average, 100 English words are produced from 72 words of Latin, due to its condensed nature. Manuscripts which are not so clearly legible or in a codified form may be subcontracted to well-qualified specialist palaeographers for conversion into print prior to translation. This necessary service incurs an additional charge.

For very short translations from English into Latin, charges start at £95. From English into classical Greek, charges start at £115.

Please make payments in sterling to 'Deborah Adlam' by cheque, or by pre-arranged electronic transfer. Customers outside the UK have used electronic transfer or bankers' drafts as a convenient method of payment, but please ensure all bankers' charges are already covered.

Translations can be received as an email attachment, or printed in double-spaced lines on A4 sheets, and packaged in a presentation folder on request.

Various extras can be purchased, such as a glossary of legal terms used in your text, footnotes explaining the historical background, or a translator's certificate of authenticity.

© D Adlam 2019